The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports an uptick in a bacteria that can cause walking pneumonia among young children across the United States.
The trend has made its way to Kentucky.
Dr. Sean Michael McTigue at UK’s Pediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic says higher fevers, any difficulty breathing, or symptoms that go on longer than typical for a usual cold are symptoms to look out for.
Although it is caused by bacteria, he says the respiratory illness acts more like a virus and can resolve on its own or it can be treated with antibiotics.
Dr. McTigue says the increase has been mostly seen in school-age children.
In Frankfort, Dr. Amael Shalash at Norton Children’s Medical Group says she hss seen 10 cases in one week earlier this month
She says other symptoms to watch out for are a gradually appearing cough, congestion, fever, and sore throat.
While these symptoms could be mild, Dr. Shalash says parents should take their kids to the doctor if they have a fever for more than three days, or if their cough is getting worse.
But, she says parents should not be overly concerned since it is just a seasonal thing.
While they are not sure what is causing the outbreak, Dr. Shalash says prevention measures include covering coughs, sneezes and washing hands.
Dr. McTigue says people who are sick should stay home from work or school while they have symptoms.
Source: WBKO
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